From conventional metal braces to modern clear aligners, many different treatments have emerged to address misaligned teeth. However, despite the growing popularity, accessibility and advancement of these teeth straightening treatments, many misconceptions still exist around the treatments themselves and how they work.
While teeth straightening is often dismissed as an indulgence for one’s own vanity, the reality is that in some cases it can have a notable positive effect on overall oral health and function. As such, in this article, we debunk five common myths about teeth straightening to provide clarity for individuals that might be considering orthodontic treatment.
What is Teeth Straightening?
Firstly, it is important to understand what is involved in the teeth straightening process. This type of treatment, also known as orthodontics, involves the use of appliances to gradually move teeth into their proper positions to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and jaws. Effective application can correct issues such as crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites and crossbites.
Different teeth straightening treatments exist for individual needs and preferences, ranging from conventional metal braces to ceramic braces and clear aligners such as Invisalign. Each option has its pros and cons based on an individual’s teeth condition, budget and appearance concerns, so it is best to consult with a dental professional to find out which is best for you.
Myth 1: Teeth Straightening is Only for Cosmetic Purposes
One of the most common misconceptions about teeth straightening treatments is that they are only for aesthetic purposes. It is true that aligning your teeth naturally results in a straighter smile, which people may find attractive. However, straight teeth can also improve oral health and function for patients.
Malaligned teeth can negatively affect an individual’s quality of life, such as making it difficult to chew and causing speech impairments. It can also be difficult to clean malaligned teeth, which can potentially lead to decay and gum disease. In some cases, malaligned teeth can also place stresses on certain teeth, which leads to an increased risk of cracking. More serious conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain have also been attributed to malaligned teeth.
Straightening the affected teeth can improve these issues by creating a more balanced bite, as well as a more cleansable environment that makes it easier to clean teeth more thoroughly. This can lead to healthier gums, enhanced jaw functionality and a reduced risk of cavities and tooth injuries.
Myth 2: Metal Braces are the Only Option for Teeth Straightening
Many people associate teeth straightening with fixed metal braces. These are often still widely used for teeth straightening and, in some cases, preferred over aligners because of their “fixed” nature. They are also enough to effectively address a variety of teeth concerns, as well as being relatively affordable. However, they are undeniably quite visible against the teeth and can only be removed by dentists.
Thanks to advancements in clear aligner technology, individuals who are looking for something more discreet yet no less effective can now choose from solutions like clear aligners, which are moulded to the patient’s teeth, are virtually invisible, and can be removed at will for eating and cleaning.
With new aligner brands in the market, the cost of aligners is now comparable with that of fixed braces. Aligners have also been shown to be better at treating certain malocclusions compared to fixed braces.
Myth 3: Teeth Straightening Takes Years to Complete
Teeth straightening is undoubtedly not an overnight process, but it does not always have to take years. Severe cases may indeed require an extended treatment time, but mild cases may only require anywhere from 6 months to less than a year. Present technology has also yielded advanced orthodontics techniques that can help accelerate the process.
Some types of techniques can stimulate bone remodelling and facilitate tooth movement, which can help reduce treatment times by up to 50 per cent and allow patients to achieve their desired results more quickly. However, be aware that you should consult a dentist to determine the treatment that is most suitable for you.
Myth 4: Teeth Straightening is Unbearably Painful
It is normal to experience some soreness and discomfort during teeth straightening treatment, especially during the initial adjustment period and subsequent alignments over the course of the treatment. This is because the teeth are adapting to the new levels of pressure being applied by the braces or aligners and are being made to shift positions. Soft tissues such as your cheeks, tongue and lips also need time to get used to braces and aligners.
In most cases, this discomfort only lasts a day or two and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. It is not normal for patients to be in severe pain at any part of the process. If this does happen, patients should consult their dentist immediately.
Myth 5: Teeth Straightening is Only for Children and Teens
Teeth straightening treatments have never been limited to children and teenagers, but since many chose to seek treatment while young, braces were often associated with adolescence.
However, with more versatile, discreet and convenient options such as clear aligners now available, more adults have become less self-conscious about exploring teeth straightening to address oral health issues and achieve straighter smiles.
This is supported by findings from an International Journal of Dentistry and Oral Science (IJDOS) study, which showed that a significant proportion of orthodontic patients in modern times have been adults. They may choose to straighten their teeth for various reasons, including correcting relapsed orthodontic treatment from their youth, addressing bite issues, or simply improving their smile.
Quality Teeth Straightening at Blackburn Family Dental
Teeth straightening can deliver a myriad of benefits for patients with misaligned teeth and their resultant issues. However, as with all orthodontic treatments, it is key to stay well-informed, such as understanding what this form of treatment can do and how the technology works. This enables you to be more confident about exploring its suitability for you and to have realistic expectations for the whole process.
At Blackburn Family Dental, we are committed to providing exceptional service at every step of your teeth straightening treatment. With over 65 years of experience, our dentists pride themselves on offering the highest standards in dental health in a relaxed and informative environment. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with our Blackburn dentists today.